Beat the blues with these mood-boosting foods
Chocolate
The darker, the better! Dark chocolate reduces the production of stress hormones, decreasing anxiety levels. At the same time, chocolate also makes the brain release endorphins and boosts levels of serotonin, an important mood stabiliser.
Berries
Berries are very efficient against depression, as they are full of antioxidants that protect the brain from inflammation and improve cognitive function. Blueberries in particular help prevent the release of cortisol, a hormone produced during stressful situations.
Oily fish
Omega 3 naturally increases a potent mood lifting, anti-depressant neurotransmitter in our brain, called dopamine. Dopamine makes us feel good, motivates us and helps us to deal with stress.
Oats
Oats are a low-GI food, meaning that energy is released slowly and blood sugar levels are kept stable, reducing the risk of “hanger” (hungry anger!) They’re also a good source of selenium, used by your body to produce serotonin.
Lentils
Lentils help to increase the production of serotonin, lowering anxiety and stabilising your mood.
Poultry
Chicken and turkey contain high amounts of tryptophan which increase the serotonin levels. They’re are also very rich in tyrosine, an amino acid that helps the body cope with stress more efficiently and is the building block for norepinephrine and dopamine, two important influences on mood.
Eggs
In addition to being an amazing, nutrient-dense food, eggs are a valuable source of choline, which has been shown to help fight depression.
Avocados
Avocados contain healthy fats that are known for raising the levels of dopamine and increasing endorphins.
Mussels
Mussels are an important source of selenium, iodine and zinc. These minerals improve the health of your thyroid gland, an essential mood regulator.
Green tea
Green tea contains an amino acid, theanine, which has been found to reduce tension and anxiety. Drinking two cups of green tea during the day can promote relaxed alertness.
- gut health
- healthy
- top tips
- fridge cake
- food festival
- me auld flower
- dublin
- dublin festival
- food and drink festival
- festival line-up
- Summer festival
- Events
- Festivals Ireland
- Body & Soul
- music festival
- summer events
- OATLY
- Crudo
- All Together Now
- Events Waterford
- Events Ireland
- news
- events Dublin
- Home-Cooking
- online cooking course
- cooking
- eco-friendly
- cosy
- wine
- grapes
- south africa
- small business
You have to be signed in to comment this post.